TAIPEI (TVBS News) — As graduation approaches, college students are facing increasing challenges, transitioning from academic life to the uncertainties of the job market. In Taipei, recent studies and personal accounts reveal a concerning trend among young adults, particularly those in their final year of college.
Chu Chia-fan, a senior student at the Department of Technology Application and Human Resource Development, NTNU, expressed his concerns, saying, "What I am anxious about is not that I can't find a job, but whether I can find one I like." This sentiment is echoed by many of his peers, who are grappling with the pressures of securing a satisfying career path.
Lin I-chen, another senior student, highlighted the psychological impact of societal expectations and social media. "Whether it's making money or renting a house, I think peer comparison or the influence of social media makes us feel burdened or confused, and we won't know if we're making the right choice," he said.
This growing unease among students is more than just academic stress. Psychiatrist Huang Chun-wei notes that these pressures can lead to severe mental health issues. "These thoughts or worries about life and the future, caused by graduation, could lead to anxiety or insomnia, and then they usually merge with other symptoms," Huang explained. He has seen cases where such stress led to panic attacks, and in extreme situations, students have considered dropping out of school due to overwhelming anxiety.
The job market itself presents its own set of challenges. Suen Hung-yue, a distinguished associate professor at NTNU, observed that many graduates are forced to adjust their career expectations. "When they look at the entire job market and see that the salary offered is only this much, naturally, they will settle for the second best and go for benefits other than the salary," he said.
Backing these observations, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) reported a significant increase in depression among 18-25-year-olds over the past decade. This trend is particularly alarming as it is double the rate found in older populations.
The rising trend of youth depression could have far-reaching effects on the job market. According to the 2022 FlexJobs' Career Pulse Survey, amidst slow income growth and rising inflation, most people now prioritize work-life balance over salary.
Experts suggest a shift in societal attitudes to effectively combat youth depression. They emphasize the importance of creating a supportive environment where young people feel comfortable expressing their struggles, which is crucial for improving mental health care.
